Israeli Authorities Warn of West Nile Virus-Carrying Mosquitoes in Central Israel

Israeli health and environmental ministries have issued a warning to approximately 320,000 residents in central Israel after detecting mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus in populated areas including Petah Tikva, Kafr Qasim, Kafr Bara, Ben Gurion Airport, and the Brenner and Central Arava regional councils. Since the start of this year’s virus season, 17 cases have been confirmed, with one fatality, a man in his 70s who developed symptoms in mid-July, and one patient currently hospitalized.

Dr. Shay Reicher, head of the Pest Control Division at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, cautioned that these findings indicate an increased risk of human exposure to the virus through mosquito bites. Local authorities have been instructed to intensify monitoring and mosquito control efforts, especially in areas where infected mosquitoes were found. Professor Sigal Sadetzki, head of the Public Health Division at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that people aged 60 and above face a higher risk of severe illness and should strictly follow preventive measures.

West Nile virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. About 80% of infected individuals show no symptoms, 20% experience mild symptoms such as fever, rash, muscle pain, and fatigue, while less than 1% develop serious neurological complications like encephalitis or meningitis, which are particularly dangerous for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. The virus does not spread from person to person or from humans back to mosquitoes.

Compared to the severe outbreak in summer 2023, when Israel recorded over 930 confirmed cases and 73 deaths, current numbers are significantly lower. The previous outbreak primarily affected older adults in central Israel and started earlier than usual, likely due to an unusually warm and humid spring and summer.

Health and environmental officials recommend preventive actions including eliminating standing water sources, using approved mosquito repellents, installing window screens, wearing long light-colored clothing during dusk, and using fans to deter mosquitoes. The public is urged to report standing water and mosquito breeding sites to local authorities. Officials stressed that informed and proper behavior is more effective than panic in managing the risk.